Gov't approves 10 solar stations by 2020

The Social-Economic Cabinet approved Monday a plan put forth by National Infrastructure Minister Binyamin Ben Eliezer to transform the Negev and Arava southern regions into "national preference" regions for renewable energy.

The plan calls for the construction of 10 solar power stations in the Negev between 2010-2020. Its objective is to have 10% of Israel's energy consumption based on renewable energy by 2020.

Israel currently produces only 1% of its energy from renewable sources, while 69% are produced from coal, 23% from natural gas and 7% from diesel fuel or fuel oil.

In order to meet the goals stipulated in the new plan, the ministry intends to promote the establishment of solar stations in the south. Three power stations will be set up immediately in the Eilot region north of Eilat. Each station will be able to produce 50-75 megawatts.

The ministry will also introduce a series of incentives for entrepreneurs wishing to build solar power stations, and will encourage investments in the research and development of renewable energy technologies.

Minimizing dependence on foreign sources

Minister Ben Eliezer branded the plan "revolutionary," and said it provided Israel with "a rare opportunity to become a world leader in solar energy, in light of Israel's preferable climate conditions, vast open areas… and one of the finest technological foundations in the world."

He also noted that the initiative would create thousands of new jobs, minimize Israel's' dependence on foreign energy sources and eventually help decrease air pollution.

Environmental organizations lauded the plan, but said it was not ambitious enough, and that Israel's aim should be to have 20% of its energy consumption based on renewable energy by 2020, and not just 10%.